Labor Day 2014 falls as early as possible on the calendar this year — Monday, Sept. 1. Traditionally, Labor Day has been marked by union picnics to remind and reinforce the idea that this is "our day" to celebrate the struggles, victories and overall importance of organized labor. As always, there are several Labor Day picnics planned geographically around the state. Oregon AFSCME encourages all members to participate if there's a picnic in your area! Please see the flyer below for details about the Portland picnic at Oaks Park. As always, Local 328 will be providing ride bracelets and food/drink coupons -- a member needs to be present to receive these.

Courtesy of the Northwest Labor Press, which acts as the unofficial clearinghouse for Labor Day picnic information, here are the most up-to-date details for other picnics throughout the state:

ASTORIA — At Cullaby Lake, in the North Shelter off U.S. Highway 101 between Astoria and Seaside. Noon to 5 p.m. Parking is $3 per vehicle. Sponsored by the Clatsop-Tillamook Central Labor Council.

BEND — At Pioneer Park, NW?Wall Street. Picnic hours are noon to 3 p.m. Sponsored by the Central Oregon Central Labor Council, there will be music, games and fun for the whole family.

COOS BAY/NORTH BEND — At Ferry Road Park in North Bend. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Music, games and fun for the whole family. Sponsored by the Southwestern Oregon Central Labor Council. The council is asking for a donation of non-perishable food items.

EUGENE/SPRINGFIELD — At the John Lively Picnic Shelters, behind SPLASH at 6100 Thurston Road in Springfield. Noon to 4 p.m. Please bring a side dish. Sponsored by the Lane County Central Labor Council.

MEDFORD — At TouVelle State Park, 8425 Table Rock Road, Central Point. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; lunch served from noon to 1 p.m. Labor music, games and fun for the whole family. There is a $5 charge for parking. Sponsored by the Southern Oregon Central Labor Council. For more information, call Kathy McUne at (541) 664-0804.

SALEM — At Waterfront Park, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Food, music and guest speakers. This year there will be a bounce house for the kids! Sponsored by the Marion-Polk-Yamhill Central Labor Council. Cost is two non-perishable food items per person. Contact Richard Swyers of AFSCME Local 2067 (City of Salem) for more information at (503) 932-7059.